Courtesy of Courthttps://courtesyofcourt.com
A Boston-Based Lifestyle BlogThu, 04 Jan 2018 15:28:56 +0000en-UShourly1https://i2.wp.com/courtesyofcourt.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/cropped-CourtesyofCourt-Still.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1Courtesy of Courthttps://courtesyofcourt.com
32321178027355 Binge-Worthy Netflix Shows That You Need to Start Watching ASAPhttps://courtesyofcourt.com/5-binge-worthy-netflix-shows-need-watch-asap/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/5-binge-worthy-netflix-shows-need-watch-asap/#respondThu, 04 Jan 2018 15:27:32 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=2032It’s been cold in Boston. Like, bitterly cold. Like, can’t-be-outside-for-more-than-one-minute-because-you’re-going-to-get-frost-bite cold. So, what’s a girl to do?🤷‍♀️BINGE. On Netflix that is. Over the past few months, I’ve come across some legit shows. Every time I talk to someone new I find myself divulging my latest Netflix-binge. Figured it was time I share. In no particular order…here […]

]]>It’s been cold in Boston. Like, bitterly cold. Like, can’t-be-outside-for-more-than-one-minute-because-you’re-going-to-get-frost-bite cold. So, what’s a girl to do?BINGE. On Netflix that is. Over the past few months, I’ve come across some legit shows. Every time I talk to someone new I find myself divulging my latest Netflix-binge. Figured it was time I share.

In no particular order…here are five binge-worthy shows, all Netflix originals, that are totally worth staying in and hiding from the world for.

Dark

Courtesy: Netflix

If you’re a fan of Stranger Things, you’ll like this show. While you won’t find any aliens or alternate universes here, there is an element of time travel that will leave you dazed, confused and desperate to know more. This international drama, originally set in Germany, has been dubbed over in English, making it slightly annoying to watch in the beginning. But trust me on this one, stick with it. You won’t regret pushing “play”.

The Fall

Courtesy: Netflix

This show has been in my “queue” for years. It was one of those shows that I marked as “want to see” but then every time I went to start a new show, I just wasn’t into it. Well, a few weeks ago, I decided to give it a shot and in just minutes – I was hooked. A detective and serial killer play an epic game of cat-and-mouse that leaves you on the edge of your seat every single episode. It’s dark, it’s twisty and it stars Jamie Dornan (drool). Enough said.

Cable Girls

Courtesy: Netflix

Set in the 1920s in Madrid, Cable Girls follows the lives of four very different women, all setting out to make a name for themselves in a world dominated by men. The issues they face together are all too real, and it sheds light on times when women were just mere “things” that men could do whatever they want with. Thankfully, these girls decide that that’s not a life they’re willing to live. The show is provocative, edgy and classy all at the same time, and the costumes are incredible. Watching Cable Girls and peeking into what life was life for a woman back in the day, makes this whole #metoo and #timesup thing really make sense. It’s sickening, but at the same time, empowering to know just how far women have come. Who run the world? GIRLS.

The Five

Courtesy: Netflix

The epitome of a “who dun it” murder mystery, this show has everything. The Five is a show about five kids, who suffer a tragedy when one of them goes missing, never to be found. Fast forward 20 years, the missing kid’s DNA shows up at a crime scene…not once, but twice, leading the four to reunite to figure out if their friend’s really alive and back, or if someone is messing with them. Yet another international thriller that doesn’t disappoint.

Travelers

Courtesy: Netflix

This show is much more of a leisurely binge. That’s to say, it’s unlikely that you’ll be DYING to catch the next episode immediately after the first, but it’s still good enough to where you’ll be excited to catch the next epi when you have a free night. Based in the present, the show centers around five “travelers” that were sent to earth from the future to save the world. Sounds like a superhero movie, huh? Not quite. They’re not the only travelers, there are a ton, and they’ve all got “missions” that will have consequences for the future. The goal though? To tweak some minor (and in some cases major!) mistakes of the past so that the future will be better for all. It’s a fairly lighthearted show that allows you to escape from your ‘everyday” into a world that may or may not be real….

Has anyone already watched these shows? Planning to? Let me know! Would love to know what you think.

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/5-binge-worthy-netflix-shows-need-watch-asap/feed/02032Holiday Cookie Recipe: Pudding-Chocolate Morsel Cookies!https://courtesyofcourt.com/holidaycookies/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/holidaycookies/#respondThu, 21 Dec 2017 18:47:35 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=2012The holidays are a time for fun, family and…FOOD. Whether you like it not, temptation is all around you. So, either you embrace it, or wind up severely depriving yourself of a good time. The choice is yours. Me? I’m embracing it. Life is short! I’m heading to Western NY to visit my family this […]

]]>The holidays are a time for fun, family and…FOOD. Whether you like it not, temptation is all around you. So, either you embrace it, or wind up severely depriving yourself of a good time. The choice is yours. Me? I’m embracing it. Life is short!

I’m heading to Western NY to visit my family this weekend, and I wanted to make something to contribute to dinner on Saturday night with my dad’s side of the family. It had to be something that didn’t require refrigeration (I’ll be driving for 6 hours), and that was fairly easy.

Cookies it is! They’re a staple, and you can never have too many. Not to mention, I’ve been on the hunt for THE best chocolate chip cookie recipe, so I decide to hit up Kraftrecipes.com to see what I could find.

Pudding-Chocolate Morsel Cookies – sold! I got to work.

Is there anything better than raw cookie dough?! YUM.

The result? Soft, chewy, chocolatey cookies. Are they the best ever? No. Are they damn good? Yes! I mean, what’s not to love? Instead of one chocolate, I used two – white and dark, so they’re extra chocolatey! Ready to get baking?

Here’s What You’ll Need:

1 cup butter or margarine, softened

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding

1 tsp. vanilla

2 eggs

1 tsp. baking soda

2-1/4 cups flour

1 pkg. (12 oz.) BAKER’S Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

Pre-heat oven to 375*

Beat butter, sugars, dry pudding mix and vanilla in a large bowl – mix until well blended. Tip: If you have an electric mixer – use it!

Add in the eggs and baking soda; mix well. Gradually add in flour. Finally, stir in chunks of chocolate.

Drop teaspoon-sized balls about two inches apart onto a baking sheet.

Bake 8-10 minutes, or until lightly brown. Let cool for a couple minutes and then transfer to a wire rack.

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/holidaycookies/feed/02012Place & Gather: Preppy New England Meets Sassy South Beachhttps://courtesyofcourt.com/placeandgather/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/placeandgather/#respondWed, 06 Dec 2017 18:08:47 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1998Boston is – hands down – one the coolest cities in the country. I say that being a fairly avid traveler and resident Bostonian. I’ve traveled to a good deal of U.S. cities, and I appreciate all of them. They each bring their own unique style and flair, but none compares to my city. Made […]

]]>Boston is – hands down – one the coolest cities in the country. I say that being a fairly avid traveler and resident Bostonian. I’ve traveled to a good deal of U.S. cities, and I appreciate all of them. They each bring their own unique style and flair, but none compares to my city.

Made up of more than a dozen unique communities within itself, Boston is home to some of the most charming towns. You’ve got Somerville, the Brooklyn of Boston, Jamaica Plain, the artsy, hipster hotspot, the Seaport, a once desolate spot with no T service (the horror!), to now a blossoming business center that has residents flocking to claim a spot in the newest high-rises that offer one of the only good views left of the city skyline.

And then there’s Charlestown. A quaint, brownstone-lined waterfront community overlooking the Charles River, with the city of Boston in its sites. It’s a beautiful spot, and one that’s highly sought after.

In June 2017, Charlestown welcomed a new neighborhood spot – Place & Gather. Within weeks, this little home decor and gift shop quickly became a “must-visit” when in town. Here’s their story.

In addition to seriously everything you can even imagine when it comes to home decor, Place & Gather also hosts fun after-work events, workshops and classes. For more info, visit: placeandgather.com/events.

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/placeandgather/feed/01998See, Sip + Snack: Nashville Travel Guidehttps://courtesyofcourt.com/nashvilletravelguide/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/nashvilletravelguide/#respondTue, 28 Nov 2017 17:59:32 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1972Just before the holiday, I packed my bags and headed down south for a little Southern Hospitality courtesy of…Nashville! This was my third time exploring the tiny little Country-music filled town, but this time was a little different. It was the first time that I had really explored outside the downtown area, and let me […]

]]>Just before the holiday, I packed my bags and headed down south for a little Southern Hospitality courtesy of…Nashville! This was my third time exploring the tiny little Country-music filled town, but this time was a little different. It was the first time that I had really explored outside the downtown area, and let me tell you…I’m SO glad I did.

Upon landing in Nashville, we headed straight to Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge…in the airport. Time for a screwdriver! We were celebrating a birthday, and waiting for our 3rd person to arrive, what do you expect!?

Screwdriver w/ a splash of Cranberry, Tootsie’s Nashville Airport

After that, it was time to explore! We spent three days in Nashville and saw some pretty cool things, sipped on some great drinks and ate some incredible food. I pulled together my top picks: “see, sip & snack guide” – a list of must-do/see places in Nashville. Hope ya’ll enjoy!

SEE

One of the most unique ways to see the city (you have a couple different “routes” to choose from) is via pedal tavern. If you’ve ever been to Nashville, you’ve probably seen these driving through the streets. It’s a bar on wheels! There are a few companies that do it; the one we chose was called Nashville Pedal Tavern.The concept is simple: you pedal while you drink! It’s BYO, and there’s a cooler on board – you just bring your drinks, toss them in cooler and you’re ready to ride. The tour is about two hours in total, and you have the opportunity to stop and go into some local bars along the way. The downside of this particular pedal tavern? THE SEATS. Ouch! Ever gone to a spin class? Yeah, it’s THAT type of ouch. The seats are literally bike seats, so pedaling for two hours on a hard bike seat = one sore butt! The next day we were all dying – every time we sat down, it had to be slow, haha! That aside, definitely a fun way to see the city!

Nashville Pedal Tavern – Broadway Tour

The city of Nashville is all about the arts. It’s filled with some of the country’s most talented musicians, producers, and artists. In addition to hearing some of the best country music, at almost any bar, at almost any time of the day, the city is also filled with vibrant, colorful pieces of art that splash the sides of buildings from one end to the other. Some of the best street art can be found on 12South Ave. Every other block has a new and unique piece of street art that’s made to be Instagrammed.

On our last day, we decided to take a self-guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium, the original home of Country music. It’s where all the greats got their start, and where the Grand Ole Opry was born. The auditorium itself was definitely a sight to see, and learning about the history behind the building was fascinating (it used to be a church!), but the tour itself was very short. If you have 30-40 minutes and want to see some history, its perfect. But if you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, there are probably better options.

SIP

Ready for a drink? I mean, you’re in Nashville, so I HOPE so. Go hit up happy hour at Tenn Sixteen. This East Nashville bar serves up the best happy hour specials I’ve seen in a LONG time. Granted, here in Boston, we don’t have the traditional happy hour (its against the law to discount liquor – whyyy), but still! It’s 2 for 1 beers (including craft!), and large mixed drinks for the price of a small. The large by the way…is literally the biggest glass I’ve ever seen. Cheers to that!

Boro Blonde, Mayday Brewery (Tennessee)

Now that you’re feeling good, head downtown. “Honky Tonk Row” is a must. Is it touristy? Sure. But it’s something you’ve got to experience at least once. Honky Tonk Row, or Honky Tonk Highway as some call it, is the strip of bars, boutiques and eats that are all along Broadway in downtown Nashville. One of my favorite spots on Broadway is Honky Tonk Central. It’s a three-in-one corner bar that has a great view of overlooking “the Row”. Each level has a different live band/musician, so it’s really like having three bars in one. It has a relaxed vibe, almost dive-like, so you don’t have to dress up – come as you are! Just how I like it.

View from the third floor at Honky Tonk Central

Looking to grab some local brew to sip on-the-go, or take home? Check out The Filling Station on 12South. The amount of craft beer they pack into that tiny little store is crazy!

Just a sample of the craft beer lineup at The Filling Station

SNACK

Hot Chicken is a staple in Nashville. It’s essentially chicken that’s been dredged in a variety of spices, fried and finished with a sauce, or paste, that consists of cayenne pepper being a key ingredient (hence the “hot”). Sandwich that between two slices of bread, add a slice of cheese, top with pickles and voila! Hot Chicken.

We went to Acme Feed and Seed, a popular spot downtown for brunch one day, and I snagged myself some of that Nashville-style Hot Chicken – soooo good! I will say, my sandwich though, could have been hotter. I like heat! And when you call something, “HOT” – it should be hot. Just my opinion. That aside though, highly recommend Acme. It’s a really cool joint that has three levels, including a cute rooftop bar that overlooks the Cumberland River and part of Broadway.

“Rule the Roost” – Hot Chicken Sandwich, Acme Feed & Seed

Another staple in the south…Barbecue. So for our next “must-have meal”, we chose Edley’s Bar-B-Que. Honestly, part of me has no words for how I feel about Edley’s, and the other part can write a NOVEL about it. The food was just that good.

I’m not the biggest BBQ-girl myself, so I opted for Catfish tacos, with a side of potato salad and mac & cheese. I almost ate every single bite. If I could have fit it into my stomach, I would have. Everything was just absolutely amazing. My friends got the brisket and pulled pork – I tried both, and both…just incredible. Fall-off-the-bone, juicy and ridiculously flavorful. TEN thumbs up!

Edley’s has a couple different locations in and around Nashville, but if you’re looking to check out 12South (the strip of street art stops mentioned above), then check out the 12South location. The vibe is awesome, and it’s little more laidback and “quiet” compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Catfish tacos w/ potato salad + mac & cheese, Edley’s Bar-B-Que

Lastly, though we didn’t get to experience this in its entirety, it’s something that I won’t forget. One night, while we were walking to find our next spot, we stumbled upon the cutest little food truck. Filled with hilarious weenie-driven puns, I Dream of Weenie was seriously the coolest Nashville find. It was just so unique and funny – wished we would have had the opportunity to eat one of those delicious weenies. Next time!

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/nashvilletravelguide/feed/01972Fall Favorite: Caramel Apple Crescentshttps://courtesyofcourt.com/how-to-make-caramel-apple-crescents/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/how-to-make-caramel-apple-crescents/#respondTue, 14 Nov 2017 15:42:43 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1902Pop quiz! What’s better than caramel, apples and cinnamon in the fall? Answer: nothing! Seriously though, the combination is a classic warmer weather combo, and one that I just can’t get enough of. My recent post highlighting Fireball Cider Jell-O Shots, is proof of that! When I came across the recipe I’m about to share, I […]

]]>Pop quiz! What’s better than caramel, apples and cinnamon in the fall? Answer: nothing! Seriously though, the combination is a classic warmer weather combo, and one that I just can’t get enough of. My recent post highlighting Fireball Cider Jell-O Shots, is proof of that!

When I came across the recipe I’m about to share, I was pumped! I hadn’t tried them before, but given the ingredients, I knew they had to be amazing. Caramel Apple Crescents. Everything I love in one tiny little package!

Hoping that I wasn’t about to create a #pinterestfail, I got to work. In less than thirty minutes (!?), I had the most perfect little ooey gooey, cinnamon-y caramel apple pockets! These guys double as the perfect after-dinner dessert, or morning breakfast treat.

Mouth watering yet? Mine is just writing this! So, ready to bake? Let’s get to it!

What You’ll Need:

Makes 8-12 Crescents (depending on the package)

One (1) package of Crescents

One (1) Granny Smith Apple

8-12 Soft Caramel Candies (or one bag for leftovers!)

1/4 cup of Sugar

Two (2) tablespoons of Cinnamon

One (1) tablespoon of Butter

Preheat oven to 375*. Cut up your apple into equally-sized slices.

Lay out a piece of parchment paper onto your countertop or a flat surface (I ended up using wax paper, because I ran out of parchment). Open the crescent package and carefully unroll each pastry spaced out evenly onto the parchment paper.

Place one apple slice and one caramel square at the wide end of each crescent. Carefully roll each pastry up as you would a typical crescent, keeping the apple and caramel tucked in tightly. Place each rollup onto an un-greased cookie sheet.

Melt the butter. Coat each crescent with the melted butter liberally.

Combine cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Grab an oversized pinch of the cinnamon sugar mixture and sprinkle over each buttered crescent.

Time to bake! Pop the cinnamon sugar-coated crescents into the oven and bake for 14-16 minutes, or until lightly browned.

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/how-to-make-caramel-apple-crescents/feed/01902Holiday Gifts For Everyone On Your Listhttps://courtesyofcourt.com/2017-holiday-gifts-for-everyone-on-your-list/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/2017-holiday-gifts-for-everyone-on-your-list/#commentsWed, 08 Nov 2017 16:37:50 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1924The holidays are right around corner – can you believe it!?! I can’t. I truly can’t. I feel like it was just yesterday that we were all bopping around in shorts and tanks complaining about the heat. To be fair, up until a couple weeks ago, we were! 😄(Mother Nature…!) Each year I feel like I […]

]]>The holidays are right around corner – can you believe it!?! I can’t. I truly can’t. I feel like it was just yesterday that we were all bopping around in shorts and tanks complaining about the heat. To be fair, up until a couple weeks ago, we were! (Mother Nature…!)

Each year I feel like I do the same thing around this time…Mom, what do you want? Dad? Nathan!? (Nathan is my brother.) Guys! Send me your lists!! It’s weirdly stressful, and totally unnecessary. Honestly, it should be quite the opposite. It shouldn’t be stressful, it should be FUN. This year, that’s where I come in! You can thank me later.

I pulled together some of my favorite affordable finds spanning from food and fashion to sports and entertainment – to ensure that there’s something for everyone on your list!

Diffusers are all the rage right now. You can pretty much find them anywhere. But this diffuser is one of the best. Not only is it adorable – it looks like an oversized Hershey Kiss – it lights up with seven different colors to choose from! Super easy to use, you simply drop in a couple drops of your favorite essential oil into the water, and turn it on. Voila! Your room smells amazing – in an instant!

I recently wrote about my experience with Global Grub; I made sushi from scratch! It was an absolute blast. A cooking kit from Global Grub is an awesome gift to give someone who loves to cook at home, and with others! It’s a global cooking experience in the comfort of your own home. AND, it’s an excuse to throw a little get together with friends. Win win! *BONUS: Use code COURT and get 10% off.

The search for the perfect nude lip color is a journey that I think every woman experiences in her lifetime…at least once! Well, the search is now over. RealHer’s “I Am Perfect” is literal perfection. It’s everything you want in a true nude. Not nude gal? There are about a dozen other shades to choose from, all in the same creamy moisurizing formula that I’ve personally come to love.

Yeti is a pretty well-known at this point. They’re most commonly known for their top notch, expensive coolers that keep things cold for like…ever. Well, using that same technology, they’ve shrunk it down into the ultimate to-go cup that’s ever been made. It keeps cold things cold, and hot things scalding hot. Perfect for those running out the door with no time to stop for coffee! Comes in 7 colors.

The name of this says it all. It’s literally an insulated wine clutch! I saw a rack of these the other day and I about died. They’re so freakin’ cute! Also, I don’t know about you, but I always find myself putting my alcohol in plastic Wegmans’ bags or sometimes, in a brown paper bag when I head to a party (laaame). Snag one of these wine clutches and you’ll be showing up in style! Comes in a variety of colors and styles.

Whether you’re a football, hockey or baseball fan, the Sportula doesn’t judge. This prideful grilling spatula is perfect for any sports fan that loves to tailgate. Adorned with the team’s logo laser engraved into the metal, this handy tool also comes fully equipped with a bottle opener on the end! #winning. Big time griller? Grab the 3 piece BBQ set for just $30 more.

Back in the day, we used to scrapbook. Today, it’s a shadowbox! This awesome box can either sit comfortably on a shelf, or could be hung on the wall. Just simply drop your ticket stub into the box once the concert is over, and commemorate the experience by showing off your love of music in a stylish way!

While you may not be able to afford those infamous red-soled pumps, this Christian Louboutin nail polish is the next best thing. Why? Because the bottle is stunning (just look at it!), and the color inside is the same iconic red as the one on the soles of those signature shoes.

This tiny little tab is perfect for the person who has everything…and also misplaces it. (Hey, it happens to the best of us!) Using bluetooth technology, this keychain helps track your phone, iPad, keys, you name it! Just connect each item to the tab, and you’ll be able to find whatever it is you’re looking for, even if it’s deep inside the couch cushions.

This coffee cup looking contraption is like a mini car wash for your pup’s paws! Just fill up the cup with some water, screw on the spill proof lid, and dunk your dog’s paws to give them a rinse before coming into the house. A quick in and out, and you’re good to go! Seriously…the things people come up with. Brilliant! Comes in petite, medium and large.

Urban Axes is an indoor competitive axe throwing experience. When is the last time you threw an axe? Oh. Never? That’s what I thought! This is a one-of-a-kind experience. Gift cards are available in a variety of denominations good for guided axe-throwing sessions as a walk-in or part of a group. The concept here is simple: grab a beer, grab some friends and compete against each other to see who can score the most points by hitting the most bullseyes…with an axe.

Here’s the catch: you can only experience this badass place if you’re either in Philadelphia, PA or Austin, TX (Baltimore, MD coming in Feb 2018!). BUT – the company is expanding, and fast. So stay tuned – there’s much, much more to come from this kick-axe company!

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/2017-holiday-gifts-for-everyone-on-your-list/feed/41924How To Make: Fireball Cider Jell-O Shotshttps://courtesyofcourt.com/how-to-make-fireball-cider-jell-o-shots/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/how-to-make-fireball-cider-jell-o-shots/#commentsSun, 29 Oct 2017 16:52:42 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1778If you’re a twenty or thirty-something, it’s almost a sure bet that if you threw a party at your house, you were left with a bottle (or some remnants) of Fireball Whiskey. For whatever reason, it’s become one of those classic party staples. (I’m still trying to figure out why, to be honest…) I recently […]

]]>If you’re a twenty or thirty-something, it’s almost a sure bet that if you threw a party at your house, you were left with a bottle (or some remnants) of Fireball Whiskey. For whatever reason, it’s become one of those classic party staples. (I’m still trying to figure out why, to be honest…)

I recently hosted some people at my house over the summer, and alas! Fireball. I stuck that puppy in the freezer and tried to forget about it. Fast forward a couple months – it’s fall (yeah!). Time to break out the apples, warm spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, mixed with citrusy flavors like orange and lemon. Yum!

This past weekend, I went to a Halloween party, and knowing full well that people would be there to drink and have a good time, I wanted to bring some sort of fun, alcoholic treat. I ended up finding a recipe on Delishand I fell in love – Fireball Cider Jell-O shots. Now, THAT’S a Fireball shot that I can get behind!

I decided to take the original recipe, and add my own flare. I upped the citrus, by swapping out the unflavored gelatin for orange, and doubled the amount of lemon juice. Then, naturally, I increased the amount of Fireball to make sure it had that cinnamon kick.

The result? A delicious, bright, flavorful shot that had people coming back for seconds….and thirds! For those that don’t care for Fireball, but don’t want to be left out when literally everyone at the party is taking a shot, this shot’s for you! It had just a hint of cinnamon, not at all overpowering. But at the same time, Fireball-lovers approved! Although just a hint, it’s a recognizable one. These unique little shots were fan favorites, and left no one unsatisfied!

Including the step-by-step below. Cheers!

What you’ll need:

Makes about 20 Jell-O shots

One (1) cup of Apple Cider

1.5 cups of Fireball Whiskey

Two Boxes (6 oz) of Orange Jell-O

The Juice of One Lemon

Whipped Cream

One Apple

How to make:

Combine Apple Cider and Lemon juice in a medium-large pot. Bring to a boil.

Add in both packages of orange-flavored Jell-O. Stir occasionally and let simmer for about five (5) minutes.

Remove from heat, and add-in the Fireball.

Lay out your shot-glass cups, and fill about 3/4 of the way up. Be careful – the mixture is hot (and sticky)!

Let cool in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, or until firm.

Now, time to decorate!

Cut up the apple into small wedges. Add a dollop of Whipped Cream onto the top of each Jell-O shot and garnish with an apple wedge. Voila!

*Note – the Whipped Cream will “wilt” after a while, so if you’re able, wait until serving to put on the Whip, that way it’ll be fluffy and fresh and your guests will love the cute presentation!

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/how-to-make-fireball-cider-jell-o-shots/feed/117785 (Slightly Unconventional) Tips on How to Stay Motivated While Working From Homehttps://courtesyofcourt.com/5tips-workingfromhome/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/5tips-workingfromhome/#respondThu, 26 Oct 2017 18:12:52 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1659I’ve been pretty MIA lately on my blog (you may have noticed), but it’s for good reason! I did something a little crazy a couple weeks ago…I,uh, launched this little thing called a BUSINESS. Yeah. So, needless to say, things have been pretty busy around here lately.😁 As of three and a half weeks ago, […]

]]>I’ve been pretty MIA lately on my blog (you may have noticed), but it’s for good reason! I did something a little crazy a couple weeks ago…I,uh, launched this little thing called a BUSINESS. Yeah. So, needless to say, things have been pretty busy around here lately.

As of three and a half weeks ago, my “office” is now my house. Some may be thinking, um…amazing, and some are like, oh…no. Well, I’m part of the first group. I don’t mind it at all! That may be because I live alone, or because I actually have a designated office in my apartment, but with anything, there are challenges. And, working from the comfort of your home is definitely one.

But, as with everything in life, I’ve learned a lot over the last couple of weeks, and thought it was worth sharing, given that the work culture is shifting to more non-conventional work spaces. Keep in mind, what works for me, may not work for you, but the point is, it’s important to find what does work, so that you can be the most productive.

TIP 1: Shower

What the!? Shower? YES. Shower. I know it seems absolutely ridiculous, but when you work from home, it’s so easy to just roll out of bed, open your laptop, start working and shower later (or not – ha!). But when get yourself into a routine, like getting up and taking a shower, you’re starting your day off. You’re literally building in a “start time”. I still struggle with this, and probably will for a while (I’m also a publicist and always “on”, so that doesn’t help!). But it’s important to find a balance. Showering first thing in the morning allows me to build in that time to “get ready” like I would if I were going into an office, and THEN open my laptop after I’ve woken up and done something for myself.

*Bonus Tip – Ladies: Throw on a little makeup – even if you’re not going to see anyone all day. Trust me. It’ll make you just feel better. I usually just toss on some mascara to brighten up my eyes a bit. Believe me, it makes all the difference when you catch yourself in the mirror looking half decent, compared to looking like a homeless zombie (that seems like an oxy-moron, but it just felt right, so I’m moving on – haha!).

TIP 2: Wear Tight(er) Clothing

So this tip is one that I took from my mom and put a twist on. My mom used to work from home for years. Her company was based out a different city, so she worked from a home office, and went into her main office once a month or so. She did this for years, so she’s pretty much an expert. She told me right from the start – get dressed in the morning! Similar to the tip above, it’s to establish some sort of regular routine. But the reason that I’m saying I adapted this tip with a twist, is because I don’t wear my clothes that I wear out, in my house. That’s because I have two cats! Though I keep my house clean and my furniture (nearly) hair-free, I’m a freak about my clothes. Animal fur on clothing is just the worst. And I want to die when I see someone covered in dog/cat hair outside of the house. Like, what! Ew! Do something about that! I digress.

What I’ve noticed about myself is that I can’t throw on some baggy PJ pants and call it a day. They’re almost too comfortable. They make me want to curl up on the couch. So, one day, I put on some yoga pants and a tighter long sleeve T and I found myself much more alert and productive. May seem crazy, but again, I think it’s a little subtle reminder that I’m not just home, hanging out, catching up on shows, I actually have things to do. So, save the hoodies and comfy pants for post-work hours.

TIP 3: Actually Use Your Office or Create a Designated Work Space

As I mentioned above, I’m fortunate enough to have an office in my house. And what I’ve learned over the past few weeks is that it’s more important than ever that I actually use it as an office. Again, this all rolls back up into creating a routine for yourself, but it’s sooo important to have a space that is WORK-only. It allows your brain to get into that work-mode, and you become more productive.

Now, if you don’t have an office in your house, that’s okay. Find a space that works for you, that’s not too distracting (TV, etc) and get a desk or high-top table – whatever – and deem this your work space. I usually work in my office for most of the day, but if it’s a sunny day, I sometimes come downstairs into my living room and set up shop on my high-top table that overlooks the street. My living room is lined with windows, so the light is amazing, and it makes me feel alert and ready to take on the day! If I’m working downstairs though, the TV is off, and the couch doesn’t even exist. Seriously, don’t even THINK about getting on that couch. Just trust me. Don’t do it.

My little work space in my home office.

TIP 4: Set An Alarm For the End of the Day

This one is one of the hardest for me, as I briefly mentioned above, and I know it’s going to be something that I struggle with, probably for forever, but it’s arguably one of the most important ones. When working from home, because you’re in the same space that you enjoy your “off time” in, where you sleep, where you play, etc, it’s really hard to stop working sometimes. In addition to creating a “start time” (like noted above), you need to create a “stop time”. For me, I’ve tried to stay within the 9-6 (ish) time frame. I may check my email before 9, but I’m trying not to respond until 9am and post-6pm. For a while, I started setting an alarm on my phone that would go off at promptly 6pm alerting me that it is time to log off!

I also do try to take advantage of the fact that I’m my own boss now (SO crazy to think), and sometimes, I need to run an errand, or do laundry, and that’s totally okay! But, if I do that, I consider the time I took away from the “typical” day, and I build that into my work day. Example: if I take 9-11am “off” to do personal things, and I don’t start my day until 11am, then I’ll work until 7 or 8pm that day or until everything I need to get done, is done for the day. Again, all about balance.

Tip 5: Get Out of the House

This one is another important one. Although, I could argue that they all are, this one is about interacting with other humans and getting perspective! So, yeah. SUPER important (haha!). What I’ve found to be the most beneficial for me (at this moment), is to carve out one day a week where I decide to wake up, get ready and GO OUT. I usually choose a work-friendly coffee shop, where I’ll order a coffee and set up shop. I usually only stay for a couple of hours, but for me, being in an environment where others are doing the same thing (go to a coffee house around 9-11am and you’ll see what I mean!), is really motivating for me. I love being surrounded by other people who are grinding just as hard as I am and making things happen! Plus, just getting out of your comfort zone and into a new environment is always a good thing. I personally like to go midweek, like on a Wednesday, so it breaks up the week a bit more, but I think any day is fine, as long as you commit to doing it once (or more, if you want) a week.

All in all, working for myself and being on my own has by far been one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made. Is it different? Oh yeah. Challenging? Definitely. Rewarding? 100%. It’s funny, ask anyone that’s now running their own business how they like it – from newbies like me, to people that have been doing it for years – and 99.9% of them will say that it’s been the best decision that they’ve made, and most likely that they wish they would have done it sooner!

So, for those out there that are considering doing the same, I say go for it! Be bold! Make sure you have a plan, and a support system (emotionally and financially), and just do it. There will be challenges along the way, no doubt, but the rewards that come along with it, are unrivaled.

From one #girlboss, to others in the world (non-girlbosses, too!), and hopefully many more to come – keep working hard and kicking ass! Let’s be real. We’re about to take over the world.

]]>https://courtesyofcourt.com/5tips-workingfromhome/feed/01659Make Memories (& Delicious Food!) with Global Grubhttps://courtesyofcourt.com/globalgrub/
https://courtesyofcourt.com/globalgrub/#commentsMon, 16 Oct 2017 20:55:21 +0000https://courtesyofcourt.com/?p=1642I’m not really sure when exactly it was that I got into food and cooking, but it’s something that I have been interested in for as long as I can remember. It all started with my grandma. My mom’s mom. The cutest little Romanian woman who had the food sense of a goddess. No measuring […]

]]>I’m not really sure when exactly it was that I got into food and cooking, but it’s something that I have been interested in for as long as I can remember. It all started with my grandma. My mom’s mom. The cutest little Romanian woman who had the food sense of a goddess. No measuring cups, no recipes, nothing – she just did her thing in the kitchen.Me and Grandma Adela

I have fond memories with Grandma Adela. Most of which, we’re baking together in the kitchen. She was so good about letting me be involved. I think having me in the kitchen with her when she was baking or cooking, was probably one of her most cherished moments. I know it was mine! Sadly, she passed some time ago, but I’ve never, ever forgotten her ridiculously amazing cooking, and I’ve tried to carry on the legacy. My mom’s not much of a cook herself (she’s not bad), just never really gotten into like her mom, or like me. So, someone’s gotta do it!

Growing up, I was a “Plain Jane” eater. Give me some chicken fingers and I was good to go! But as I got older, I got more and more curious. I started experimenting with herbs, and then spice and now – toss me almost anything, and I’ll try it! Because really, why not? You may not like it, sure, but what if you LOVE it? Isn’t it worth it? I think so.

So now that you understand a little bit about how food has played a role in my life, you’ll understand why I’m totally obsessed with Global Grub. Global Grub is a California-based company that’s making global cuisine accessible, by literally dropping it at your door step. From Japanese and Jamaican, to Mexican and Italian, their DIY kits allow you to create globally-inspired meals from scratch, in the comfort of your own home.

Just a few of the ingredients in Global Grub’s DIY Ravioli Kit.

This isn’t a subscription service like Blue Apron or Hello Fresh, these cooking kits are an experience. They come with the ingredients and the tools you need to make everything from scratch. Once you’re ready to cook, you just need to grab a few more things to finalize your recipe (the perishable goods!) and you’re ready to create. Global Grub calls this the “freedom factor”. It’s the ability to custom create and add-to your recipe in whatever way you want! For instance, if you have a vegetarian and you’re making sushi, then just grab a few veggies! If you want meat-filled ravioli, grab some meat! You get the idea.

Each kit comes with instructions on how to create your dish, and the company even has video tutorials up on their website for those that want to actually see how it works. They walk you step-by-step through the process, allowing you to turn raw ingredients into a delicious dinner for four (or more!).

When I got my kits in the mail, I couldn’t WAIT to try them out. First up, sushi! I’ve been dying to make at-home sushi for as long as I can remember. Honestly though, I just didn’t know where to go to get the rolling mat, and nori, so it’s been put on hold. But, alas! I’m now ready to roll. I grabbed a couple friends and we had a DIY sushi night in.

Rollin’ with my homies!

I was pleasantly surprised at how good I was at rolling sushi! The first one I rolled was pretty rice-heavy. *Tip – you only need a super thin layer of rice!! But the next one – pure perfection!

Having my friends there was the best part of the experience. Because really, that’s what Global Grub is all about. It’s about the experience of creating globally-inspired meals. It was so much fun taking turns packing up our sushi, and rolling it out. At one point, we were literally cheering each other on!

I don’t have kids, but I imagine moms with young kids would enjoy this just as much as a group of twenty – err– thirty somethings did! Memories like cooking with your parents (or in my case, grandparents), are ones that last a lifetime, so while the food is GREAT, the experience shared with whomever you choose – is worth so much more.

My next Global Grub cooking adventure will be taking on Ravioli! Going to tap into my inner Italian (I’m literally 0% Italian), for this one!

If you want to go on a cooking adventure with me, use code COURT to save 10% off your kit. If you’re not a foodie, or don’t enjoy making food at home, you definitely know someone that does. These kits make AWESOME gifts! Instead of giving someone a gift card to go eat at a restaurant, give them an experience – of creating a homemade globally-inspired meal at home – together!

Our finished sushi platter! (We ate the rest as we were making it, haha!)

]]>With names like “Hunnay,” “Boss B,” and “YASS Queen,” you better be prepared to bring out your inner Sasha Fierce when you step into WinQ Lash Bar on Comm Ave in Brookline. The motto? Book. Nap. Slay. (snap!) I didn’t really understand what that meant… until I experienced a full-on lash extension session. Let me tell you, it’s an experience. One that frankly, I was completely clueless about!

Before WinQ, I thought that when getting lash extensions, you just sit in a chair (a nice, comfy one), and you tip your head back for like, I don’t know…twenty minutes? That was literally the complete opposite of my experience at WinQ. From the moment I walked in, I realized that this was much, much more than a “treatment,” but rather a spa experience. I was taken into a room that looked very similar to a massage room, equipped with what appeared to be a massage table. My lash expert, Liz, told me to get comfy! “Take your shoes off, if you want!” Don’t have to ask me twice! I slipped off my shoes and snuggled under the covers.

Before we started, Liz told me about the process, and how things were going to go during the next hour and forty (!!!) ish minutes. Then we got started. I asked a lot of questions. (I blame the journalist in me ). Liz was awesome about it though. She answered all my questions, and didn’t make me feel dumb for asking some of the more ridiculous questions. How many eyelashes does an average human have? I was curious! Answer: hundreds.

Midway through my session, I felt myself totally zoning out…I really only heard the music, and then all of a sudden I felt a quick jolt. “Did you doze off?” Liz asked. Geez! I guess I did! What the heck! Someone is literally holding on to my eyelashes, and I still managed to snooze for a minute? I was just so comfortable…

At the end of my session (I got the “Hunnay” service, by the way), my lashes were…LUSCIOUS. Big, bold and eye-catching. So much so that at first, I had to do a double-take. I just wasn’t used to seeing lashes that long (and that many of them!). Liz estimates that she adhered about 60 individual lash extensions onto my natural lashes to give me that full, doll-like look. Assuming I take care of them (and I will…), they should last a few weeks.

Final thoughts? I actually really love my extensions. To completely transparent, I was a little worried at first. It was just shocking for me to see. My eyes are already a pretty prominent feature on my face, so to see them to accentuated like they were in a blink of an eye (pun intended ), it was a little overwhelming. But within about a day, I was sold. Not only does it cut my daytime routine time by more than half, but I also feel “done up” even when I’m not! It’s a pretty powerful feeling as a woman.

So do I recommend? Definitely. Just make sure that you’re prepared when going in. Do a little bit of research. Maybe you don’t need a full set, maybe you just need a little boost on the outer corners, or maybe a few lashes interspersed within your natural lashes. Regardless, WinQ in Boston offers it all. Check out my experience in a nutshell:

Werk ladies, werk!

I was offered a complimentary lash session by WinQ in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.